Josea Michael Kazhe, Assault with Chainsaw, New Mexico 2019
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A horrific crime has shaken a New Mexico community. Josea Michael Kazhe, 19, of Mescalero, New Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court in Las Cruces, New Mexico on June 25 to assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country.
According to Kazhe’s plea agreement, he assaulted the victim on December 24, 2019 in Otero County, New Mexico within the boundaries of the Mescalero Apache Reservation. Kazhe cut the victim’s arm with a chainsaw, causing a deep laceration. The victim needed emergency transportation by helicopter to a hospital in El Paso for treatment. Kazhe and the victim are both enrolled members of the Mescalero Apache Tribe.
Kazhe is currently in custody awaiting sentencing. He faces from 18 to 24 months in prison under the terms of his plea agreement.
The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Details of the crime are disturbing. Kazhe’s actions left the victim with serious injuries, including a deep laceration from a chainsaw. The incident highlights the need for increased safety measures in Indian Country.
Kazhe’s sentencing is pending. The court will determine the exact length of his prison term.
The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates on Kazhe’s sentencing.
Defendant: Josea Michael Kazhe
Criminal Charges: Assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country
City and State: Mescalero, New Mexico
Date: June 25, 2019 (plea agreement), December 24, 2019 (crime date)
Sentence: Up to 24 months in prison
Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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